SFR Rocks III

This summer marked Will's 3rd time to attend Shepherd's Fold Ranch Camp.

This is a camp that I went to as a rebellious 15 year old...and a camp that I credit with learning about and experiencing the power of the Holy Spirit for the first time.

As we arrive for Camp Closing Ceremonies, we quickly were able to meet Will's counselor this year...Nathan. He was so warm and friendly!

This was Will's 1st year to attend "Ranch Camp" - for grades 8th - 10th.

That meant a bigger and better cabin.

Time for the Eagle's Nest Closing Ceremonies

Will's cousins Keegan (15 yr old) and Grant (12 yr old - below) were at camp with him again this year...coolest thing ever for these boys to get to hang together in this way!

Worship & Praise

funniest song ever - they scream at each other at this one spot

Dance unto the Lord! (just like King David!)

There is truly nothing like watching kids worship the Lord with all their might!!

Time for his cabin awards

Will received the *Foresight Award* - Nathan said he was "wise beyond his years" (I agree!)

So thankful to have my boy home...there's just something about your firstborn. When they are gone, everything feels different. And speaking of different, I love to see the *difference the Lord makes in his life as he encounters him in such an amazing and intimate way at SFR. 

A Friday Dip

A day in the Sun with dear friends = FUN

My BFF from growing up and I have been trying to get together...at long last, we connected for a Friday picnic and dip in the pool. It was perfect.

I know we will cherish these pictures one day just like I cherish Elizabeth and I's childhood photographs...they capture a moment in time

*Fun Fourth!*

It was a Great 4th this year! Lots of good ol' fashioned fun.

We began the festivities on Tuesday, July 3rd with some backyard play at our dear friends' house.

It wouldn't be a hot summer night without a cold, tasty popsicle!

and a blow on a pinwheel! :-)

The night's finale included a dance show by our girlies 

- dressed in all of Lauren's recital costumes  

Fourth of July

  Southern Hills Annual Swim Games

Well, for some of us anyway...this one, sits the sidelines ;-)

Ella was the first up in the Girls 8 and Under Free Style 25m.

I was SO proud of her - she came in 3rd!

Next up, after TONS of begging...was the Father Daughter Ages 10-12 50m

Abby had to barter "lots of tickle" to get Big G to oblige

waiting for the whistle

1st Place!

(don't ask how many entered...hee hee)

  Next up was Grandad and Nana's traditional 4th of July cookout - a family favorite!

Abby and I picked out this cute flag dish off of Pinterest as one of her sides to take. 

(looking at it now, I wish I would have used black grapes instead of blueberries - they aren't proportionate and that totally bugs a type A kind of gal)

needless to say, the kiddo's loved them!

Grandad grilled up his famous cheeseburgers and sweet onions...and we ate up!

 Abby and Zoe playing swim games

Boy Cousin Dive Event

After all that swimmin', Big O was ready for some dessert!

and some cuddle time with his Aunt Gayle

*Southern Hills Fireworks Show*

Courtney, Lauren, Ella & Abby

Getting ready for the night sparkles!

Oma gets some cuddle in before the show begins...

G and N treat grandkids to snow cones

Let the Show Begin!!

Mom and Dad cuddle time :-))

World's Most Giving Father

Due to our rush to get to the airport to leave for Ireland, Father's Day was a bit short lived this year.

But, before we left, the kids presented him with lots of xoxo's, cards and gifts.

Abby made her Daddy the sweetest Storybook about him being the world's most giving Father. Those are the best gifts of all! 

There are no words to describe the gratefulness I feel in my heart when it comes to the blessing of having the love of my life also be my partner in raising our children. In every area where I lack (and often times fail), he is always there to save the day. He is the most consistently loving man I know. He doesn't waver. He is steadfast. He is a living example of Christ.